Price Paid:
$7200.00
at Crank Daddys (Milw, Bike Setup:
2010 Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL2
Specialized S-Works Crank
Specialized Romin SL
Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 Group
Shimano Dura-Ace Tubeless Wheels
Shimano Dura-Ace 7810 Pedals
Summary:
A few years ago, I purchased my first full carbon road bike from a LBS (Trek Madone 5.1), and for the most part was happy with it. I like the lightness, stiffness, and the compliance of the ride after riding two alumminum framed bikes before. However, after many months of uncomfortable riding, it turned out that the LBS that gave me a good deal on my new bike, also SIZED the bike for me incorrectly (too long). After a year of riding in discomfort, I finally got fed up with the ride (I liked the bike, not the fit), sold it, and set out to purchase "the last road bike that I would ever buy." I opted for a new, PROPERLY FIT, 2010 Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL2. I even popped for the upgrade to have Di2 installed ($2K). And in case you were wondering, yes I purchased it from a different LBS. Much happier this go around.
After a little research, I had narrowed my choices down to either of the Specialized road bikes, the Tarmac or the Roubaix.
In test riding, I really liked the Tarmac's liveliness and hill climbing. In the end, it was the handling of the Tarmac that did it in. It was RAZOR sharp, which would be nice when racing in a large tight group. However, it was too much for me, since a) I don't ride in groups and b) If my mind wandered a little bit...so did my bike.
The Roubaix SL2 is a WONDERFUL bike. While not as agile as the Tarmac, it is HUGELY comfortable. The zertz inserts really do their thing, taking the edge of off bumps and vibrations. However, don't think that the Roubaix is a wet noodle. When I jump on the bike, it responds immediately, and never flexs or twists whatsoever. You can still put the power down when you want, and at the same time, not get catapulted off of the saddle going over bumps and cracks (which happened to me on the Tarmac, but not the Roubaix). It climbs hills hills very well (bested only by the Tarmac, but just slightly), the cranks are nice and stiff, and the DA carbon tubeless wheels spin up fast and are comfortable. And I love the Di2 upgrade.
One more thing, the LBS (Crank Daddys) is a BG 3D-Fit certified location, and they did a great job on the fit. They worked with me on every aspect of the fit and ride (like switching from the Romin SL saddle from the Toupe), and I've never been more comfortable. Strengths:
- Hugely compliant. Bumps and cracks that make my joints ache on alum bikes seem to disappear.
- Great Power transfer: reponds immediately with no flex or lag. Goes when you put the power down.
- Light. Like, sick light.
- Solid stable ride. Not twichy, tracks straight as an arrow.
- Stock Carbon DA tubeless wheels are great. They spin up fast, and I can ride a more comfortable tire pressure (85 psi). Weaknesses:
- Not razor sharp handling, but it's not a slouch.
- Wheel base can feel long if used to more race oriented bikes. Similar Products Used:
2010 Specialized Tarmac (test ride)
Trek Madone 5.1
Lemond Road Bike
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